Dive into an extraordinary opportunity at the National Aquarium of New Zealand! We’re seeking a passionate Lead Keeper for a 2-year fixed-term role to care for our incredible animals, lead key projects, and support our Animal Care team. You’ll be hands-on with husbandry, exhibit maintenance, diving operations, and visitor engagement, helping us deliver world-class animal care and unforgettable experiences.

This role offers the chance to mentor a team of keepers and aquarists, contribute to conservation programs, and play a vital part in shaping the future of our exhibits. If you have experience in aquarium or zoo animal care, a diving qualification, and a love of working with people and animals, we want you on our team.

Bring your energy, expertise, and enthusiasm to help us inspire, educate, and conserve.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Mentor a team of keepers and aquarists.
• Manage daily animal care, husbandry, and exhibit maintenance.
• Participate in diving operations for animal husbandry, tank maintenance, and visitor experiences.
• Contribute to conservation programs and the planning of new exhibits.
• Support visitor engagement through presentations, encounters, and educational activities.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• Experience in hands-on management of zoo or aquarium animals.
• Diving qualifications (PADI Rescue Diver or equivalent; occupational diving competence desirable).
• Strong knowledge of animal welfare, husbandry, and life support systems.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, proactive approach.
• Passionate about conservation, education, and delivering an exceptional visitor experience.

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• 5 weeks annual leave after 2 years service
• Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme + Eye Test Subsidy
• Retailer Discounts + Study assistance
• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)
• Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club
• Free flu vaccinations (annual)
• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka
• Te Reo Māori language classes

This is a two year fixed term opportunity working 80 hours per fortnight across a 7 day roster (some weekend and public holiday work required). You will be based at the National Aquarium of New Zealand on Napier’s Marine Parade.

The salary package for this role is between $68,500 – 80,600 (including KiwiSaver) depending on your skills and experience.

We will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including drug testing, with some roles requiring health screening). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

Job Description – Lead Keeper